My name is Peter Carmorlinga; I’m a 39-year-old high school graduate, and the youngest of three. I come from a loving family and was highly regarded by my peers, teachers, and my community.
Then, in 2000 I was convicted of first-degree murder and received a sentence of Life without the possibility of parole (LWOP).
In 1997 at the age of 19, I committed a crime during which two innocent lives were taken so needlessly.
I was educated, driven, infused with self-esteem, and yet so lost with no direction. Ignorant doesn’t begin to describe how I lived. I had it all and my arrogance wrongly instilled in me a mentality that I could take anything that wasn’t mine.
I’ve hurt countless people in two different cities and communities, and victimized so many others as well. I’m forever affected by all that I’ve done.
I have become a man, a mentor and a student. I am on the road to being rehabilitated and to becoming the best me possible. I’m pursuing my degree in science and have completed many self-help classes. I’m both humbled and proud of my accomplishments and direction.
I love being positive and a powerful influence to anyone around me. Many have recognized my change, growth, and progress and I am privileged to have the relationships that I do. I recognize my destructive lifestyle and the harm I have done. Now, I intend to help others see the treasures and gifts life has in store for us.
There is no justification for my crime and there are no victors, but there are some mighty lessons and those I will share with others.
I know full well from my experiences and environment that people can and do change. That is our goal and our salvation.